Liverpool Smash Transfer Record for Wirtz
Liverpool’s $209m Wirtz deal justified as champions plan further signings, with former Reds goalkeeper Sander Westerveld praising the record-breaking move for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz. The Premier League champions broke their transfer record by paying £100 million (around AU$206 million) to bring in the highly-rated playmaker, surpassing their previous highest fee of £85 million spent on Darwin Nunez.
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Praise from Westerveld: A “Little Magician”
Westerveld, speaking with PA news agency, described Wirtz as a “little magician” and fully deserving of the hefty price tag. He believes the young German could be one of the most thrilling players to watch in the upcoming season and potentially transformative for the team. Westerveld avoided direct comparisons to other stars but emphasized that Wirtz’s potential and style make him a standout addition.
Honoring a Legend, Celebrating a Future
He made these comments during the launch of a new Cruyff Court at Liverpool’s Lakeside School, a facility dedicated to pupils with additional learning needs, which has now been named in his honor.
Liverpool’s Transfer Spree Continues
Liverpool’s summer transfer activity has been robust, with the club also poised to secure Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez in the coming days. Combined with the arrivals of Wirtz, his Leverkusen teammate Jeremie Frimpong, and Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, the total spending of the Merseyside club is expected to surpass £200 million (roughly AU$418 million).
FSG’s Biggest Window Since 2018
This marks Fenway Sports Group’s most significant investment in a transfer window since 2018. Westerveld welcomed the aggressive approach, noting that Liverpool had been relatively quiet in recent windows, with Federico Chiesa being their only major acquisition last season.
A Squad Taking Shape
He acknowledged that fans had been eagerly awaiting a spending spree and believes the club’s new additions are justified. He echoed the club’s philosophy that big money is only spent on players who truly add value, and in the cases of Wirtz, Frimpong, and Kerkez, he sees real excitement and quality. Westerveld concluded by saying that Wirtz ranks among Europe’s best talents and that the evolving squad is shaping up to be something special for the season ahead.
